The Boston Bruins’ recent acquisition of goaltender Jiri Patera off waivers from the Vancouver Canucks has reignited speculation surrounding the future of Jeremy Swayman in Boston. With Linus Ullmark already traded to Ottawa, many are wondering if Don Sweeney is planning a complete overhaul between the pipes.
NHL analyst Mike Johnson recently suggested on TSN 1050 radio that the Utah Hockey Club could be the ideal destination for Swayman. This intriguing possibility has certainly caught the attention of hockey fans and analysts alike. Let’s delve into why this move makes so much sense.
Utah’s Appeal:
- Up-and-Coming Team: Utah with a young, hungry core. Adding a proven goaltender like Swayman would significantly bolster their roster and accelerate their competitive timeline.
- Financial Flexibility: Utah’s ownership has shown a willingness to spend money, and they possess the cap space to offer Swayman a lucrative long-term contract, potentially in the $8-$10 million AAV range for the next 8 years. This would provide Swayman with the financial security and recognition he deserves.
- Opportunity to Shine: In Utah, he would be the undisputed number one starter, giving him the opportunity to truly showcase his abilities and establish himself as a top-tier NHL goaltender.
Why Boston Might Consider a Trade:
Despite Swayman’s undeniable talent, the Bruins might be motivated to move him for several reasons:
- Cap Constraints: The Bruins are facing some cap challenges, and trading Swayman would free up significant space to address other needs.
- Return on Investment: Trading Swayman could yield a substantial return in the form of draft picks or prospects, allowing the Bruins to further strengthen their organizational depth.
My Take:
While it’s still early in the process, a Swayman trade to Utah seems like a win-win scenario for both sides. Swayman would get a fresh start with a team that can pay him what he’s worth, and the Bruins would gain valuable assets to help them navigate their current cap situation. It’s a situation worth monitoring closely as we approach the NHL season.
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This is a terrible idea. Period.